BALLARAT Turf Club employees are still reeling in the mess left by thieves, even though one of the most expensive items has been located.
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Last week the club was devastated by a senseless break and enter when $50,000 of machinery was swiped.
Police said the Kennedys Road theft happened between between 5pm, July 29 and 7.20am, July 30.
Offenders allegedly stole power tools, including two welders, an air compressor and gas bottles.
The following day Ballarat police found the $30,000 John Deere Gator dumped in a Wendouree reserve.
Police said they were continuing to investigate the break and enter and locate other stolen machinery.
Racecourse manager Dylan O’Neill was thrilled to have the Gator back, as staff prepared for the Grand National Steeplechase on August 9.
“It’s one of our most used vehicles,” Mr O’Neill said, adding that some of the external fittings were missing.
The loss of welders and other machinery had made repairing damage impossible.
“We just haven’t got any power tools which we basically need for every job,” Mr O’Neill said.
A fence, mowed down by heavy machinery, remained strewn across the turf club yard a week on– it had not yet been repaired.
Mr O’Neill said there was still much to be done before thousands of people flocked to the grounds on Sunday.
“The repairs the fence need to be done, and they will cost thousands,” he said.
“It’s upsetting to know people have been in your property, violating you trust.”
Mr O’Neill did not hold high hopes of recovering the other items, but urged people to be on the look out for machinery sold at cheap prices.
“If you see anything, contact police for sure,” he said.
Detectives are investigating the incident and wish to speak to anyone with information.
They have also urged anyone offered cheap equipment for sale, that matches the description of the items stolen, to contact police on 5336 6000 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.